Tag Archives: Alternative Pop

Alt- Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

Róisín O ‘2023’

Irish singer-songwriter Róisín O has released her new single ‘2023’. The song is the second track taken from her upcoming EP due later this year. ‘2023’ follows on from the hugely successful January release of ‘Heart + Bones’, which brought Róisín O much fanfare and a coveted spot on BBC1 as part of its flagship Six Nations Rugby coverage. ‘2023’ was written with Cian McSweeney (True Tides) and produced by Phil Magee, (Kodaline, Wild Youth, The Script, The Academic, JC Stewart).


‘2023’ is a thrilling banger coated in vivid shimmering pop, lush instrumentation and the wonderfully infectious songwriting of Róisín O. The song sparks into life with elegant piano and soft ethereal soundscapes opening up to a lush synth-pop backdrop and Róisín O’s unmistakable vocals. Displaying dynamic passion throughout, her vocals anchor the listener within the song’s emotional and vibrant melodies that chime with 80’s pop elements, dancefloor-ready rhythms and funky guitar embellishments. The track oozes feel-good vibes through lyrics of optimism and hope for the future while capturing that sense of summer through its instrumental backdrop. ‘2023’ is a captivating tune from Róisín O that is destined for repeat plays.


Speaking about the single Roísín says, “I wrote 2023 in the depths of the 2nd lockdown in Ireland when things were pretty grim. It was a great respite to get into studio with Cian, he has such a contagious, refreshing optimism, and the more we worked on the song the more it became about looking forward to the future with optimism and hope. The release of ‘2023’ comes at such a great time, when the summer is stretching out in front of us and we can imagine being with pals again in a garden, or a field, or a beer garden somewhere. That’s when I imagine ‘2023’ will come on. And everyone will bop”.

Stream ‘2023’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

FYA FOX ‘Sunset’

FYA FOX has released her new single, ‘Sunset’. FYA’s debut single, ‘White Lies’, received favourable radio support across the UK and Ireland, including a world exclusive from Radio One’s Gemma Bradley on BBC Across The Line. Her previous two singles, ‘Body’ & ‘White Lies’, have already been supported by 2fm, Today FM and many more. ‘Body’ was added to the BBC Radio Ulster ‘Where Music Matters’ playlist, which features ten new tracks across the BBC Radio Ulster playlist each month and was also added to a number of prestigious Spotify playlists, including ‘Fresh Finds’ (750k followers).

Showcasing mesmerising vocals and a shimmering electronic pop backdrop, ‘Sunset’ is a compelling new single from FYA FOX. The song broods for the verses creating an enticing vast soundscape that flickers with dark alternative pop embellishments, rich textured rhythms, shadowy instrumental elements and soft keys. FYA FOX’s magnificent vocals are the icing on the cake in this track. Her vocal range is stunning and a joy to listen to. Her voice holds an air of majesty as she coos through the verse before echoing delicate harmonies in the dynamic chorus. ‘Sunset’ is a catchy, luxuriantly arranged alternative pop gem and a beautiful example of why FYA FOX is an artist to treasure

Stream ‘Sunset’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, New Music

Lost Boys ‘Weak’

Lost Boys have released their new single, ‘Weak’. The Limerick/Cork based indie-pop band have been recording over multiple lockdowns from their homes. Over the last year Lost Boys have sold out two headline gigs, been featured twice on the New Music Friday UK Spotify Playlist, placed at No1 on the iTunes charts in Ireland for their single ‘Sunrise’ and the band reached 255,600 streams across streaming platforms. ‘Sunrise’ was also marked as RTE 2fm’s Song of the week.


‘Weak’ is Lost Boys most ambitious tune to date and marks an intriguing shift in their sound. The band venture into R&B territory with elements of hip hop drifting atop dazzling production and a chilled sonic wall of sound. Hints of indie glimmer through the tracks atmosphere which bounce off bubbling beats and elastic bass grooves while ethereal electronics creates space within the kinetic soundscape. Oozing smooth vocals this genre blending tune exudes Lost Boys laid back, cool persona while showcasing the bands strong musical growth.  


Stream ‘Weak’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music

Dark Tropics ‘Keep Searching’

Ireland’s Dark Tropics return with their soulful third single, ‘Keep Searching’.The duo released their debut single ‘Badlands’ last summer, followed by the uplifting ‘Moroccan Sun’ late 2020, to widespread critical acclaim, even getting Billboard’s attention, who included it in their 10 Cool New Pop Songs. Radio support so far has included KEXP, Radio X and BBC Radio 1/Introducing in the UK and USA. 

 ‘Keep Searching’ is a lush soulful tune dripping in dreamy melodies and Dark Tropics’ first rate musicianship. The song drifts upon a haze of soft instrumentation while Rio’s soothing vocals lull over the luxuriant smooth melody. This delightful track boasts grand expansive soundscapes as elegant strings, lounge bar piano and lush harmonies glide gracefully throughout. With soft R&B tones glimmering through the buoyant rhythms, Dark Tropics have created a cinematic track that showcases the duo’s refined song writing while providing the listener with an immersive and engaging tune to indulge in.

 “‘Keep Searching’ was inspired by the vibrancy and romance of 60’s American soul music,” says the band. “It’s about not wanting to be left behind and having the strength and resolve to chase a dream no matter what.”

stream  ‘Keep Searching’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Electronic, EP Review, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music

Jack Rua and Saint Taint ‘I Don’t Party Enough Anymore’ EP

Irish glam-pop artist Jack Rua and American hyper-pop artist Saint Taint have teamed up on a scintillating EP called ‘I Don’t Party Enough Anymore’. 

‘I Don’t Party Enough Anymore’ is a tantalizing body of work that melds heavy electronics with intricate instrumentation and dazzling production. The artists knock it out of the park with their sugar rush of sounds while allowing each track to evoke the wide range of emotions everyone has been feeling since the pandemic began. ‘Contact’ kicks the EP into motion. With smooth vocals gliding sweetly over a bubbling backdrop of ethereal synths, infectious rhythms and swirling soundscapes, Jack Rua and Saint Taint provide a punchy assault to the senses. Title track ‘I Don’t Party Enough Anymore’, continues the lush textural blitz of its predecessor as it spirals into a chaotic dizzying explosion of electronics between staccato synth and dance immersed beats that create surges of adrenaline between the chilled verses.  

As the EP progresses the quality of earworm melodies and glitter pop backdrops intensify, completely absorbing the listener in vibrant electronics, EDM elements and tropical tones. A fine example of this is ‘Lovemelikeiloveyou’ – a glorious moment within the EP. This bright tune radiates sun kissed tones, shimmering synths and deft beats. Within ‘Lovemelikeiloveyou’ Jack Rua and Saint Taint lyrically capture 2020’s feelings of frustration, loneliness and anxiety “my paranoia’s been keeping me company”. The high energy and infectious melodies continue throughout until the grand finale, ‘Bike Ride’.A piano reverb laced tune layered with sticky beats and quirky samples that provides a biting backdrop for Saint Taint’s poignant depiction of life in America amidst the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter protests.

Over four tracks Jack Rua and Saint Taint succinctly explore the impact of 2020 and covid 19. It’s a remarkably confident EP boasting exquisite melodies and bewitching electronic pop sounds creating a contemporary and unique listening experience. Within ‘I Don’t Party Enough Anymore’, the listener witnesses two dynamic, talented artists showcase their musical prowess and hone their craft to create an EP that is as passionate and emotive as it is engaging and enjoyable. 

Stream ‘I Don’t Party Enough Anymore’ below 


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, Indie Pop, indie rock, New Music

Soda Blonde ‘In The Heat Of The Night’

Photo Credit : Ste Murray

Soda Blonde have released their new single ‘In The Heat Of The Night’ taken from their highly anticipated debut album ‘Small Talk’ which is set for release on July 9th via Velveteen Records, the entirely self-produced album sees the group reflecting on their twenty-something experiences with refreshingly honest transparency.

Teasing with a lingering refrain on keys, ‘In The Heat Of The Night’ announces itself with an air of mystery. In true Soda Blonde manner, the track expands on this refrain to delicately reveal lush textures and melodies as the song progresses. The band creates an enticing and rich soundscape that exudes a disco-esque persona enhanced by an irresistible groove on bass, supple guitars and gentle percussive shuffles. The song flows with subtle cinematic qualities that is simply awe-inspiring and mellowed by Faye O’Rourke’s bewitching soft coos as she sings, “It’s the way you carry on and the way that you lie, It’s under harsh lights baby we say our goodbye”.

‘In The Heat Of The Night’ is a nostalgic and engaging slice of indie-pop cementing Soda Blonde as a band that sets a high standard. Their timeless sound is set to inspire future bands and artists.

About the track, ‘O’Rourke describes: “The music possessed an attitude that I wasn’t familiar with as a songwriter. It deftly evoked the neon of night and brought Scorcese’s Casino to my mind. Our goal was to create a song that had everything we wanted to hear. It allowed me to write, uninhibited by the labour of self-analysis. It’s a song about conflict-and getting a kick out of it. The thrill of the fight”

Stream ‘In The Heat Of The Night’ below 


Author : Danu

Feel Good Music, Indie, New Music

BUTLER ‘ME & YOU’ featuring Wax WHITE

Dublin based dance/pop artist Butler has released his brand new single ‘ME & YOU’ featuring Wax White . Bursting with the signature pop sound we have come to expect from Butler, ‘Me & You’ sees White Wax bring a fresh new dynamic to the song. Butler is the brainchild of award-winning singer/performer Luke Thomas, and the electrifying new project has allowed him to explore his more commercially creative side.

Bright, sun-kissed and saturated in sweet melodies, ‘Me & You’ is a glorious new single from Butler. With smooth vocals spread over a sugar dipped doo-wop esque melody, the track has a dreamy and irresistible charm while bubbling beats and lush electronics create a buoyant backdrop. This earworm surges with Butler’s natural melodic prowess and refined musicianship without becoming overpowering. His meticulous rich production and hazy soundscapes makes the song instantly likeable. Boasting jaunty guitar lines and catchy chorus teamed with a refreshing rap from Wax White, ‘Me & You’ is a radiant guzzle of summer pop to indulge in.

Stream ‘Me & You’ below 


Author : Danu

New Music

NEOMADiC ‘WAVES’ featuring shiv

NEOMADiC

NEOMADiC have released their new single ‘WAVES’ featuring shiv, alongside announcing the release of their EP ‘AFTER DARK’ due to be released this summer. The single ‘WAVES’ sees two of Ireland’s most up and coming acts join forces – with NEOMADiC having been championed by Highsnobiety, The Irish Times and Red Bull as well as making their TV debut on RTE’s Other Voices, while shiv was named by RTE 2FM as one of their Rising Artists for 2021 as well as capturing the attention of the BBC.’WAVES’ is the first release since NEOMADiC’s 2017 debut tape ‘The NEOMADiC Tape’ which caught the attention of the Irish Hip hop scene, resulting in headline slots at festivals such as Electric Picnic and KnockanStockan, as well as support slots with hip/hop legends Souls of Mischief and Pharoah Monch.

‘WAVES’ is a soothing and tranquillising tune brimming with chilled R&B soul, beautiful croons from shiv and delicate arrangements. NEOMADiC deliver precise, sleek rhymes that flow over bubbling beats and soft keys, creating a chilled night time listening experience. As the track drifts upon dreamy melodies and R&B elements, an icy twinkle on keys provides an almost eerie hue to the song, while shiv’s lush vocals add a sweet contrast to the deeper vocals. ‘WAVES’ is a sublime appetiser for the upcoming EP as NEOMADiC display their tight organic and spacious sound in all its glory.

Stream ‘WAVES’ below


Author :Danu

Alt- Pop, Indie, New Music, Singer/Songwriter

nicha ‘saltwater song’

Photo Credit : Nathan Magee

nicha has released her new single, ‘saltwater song’. nicha (also known as Lucy Robinson) is a 23-year-old Northern Irish native, born and raised in Holywood, Co. Down. In July 2020, nicha took the scene by storm with her debut single ‘Devices’ – a song about our society being addicted to our phones. She has already been critically acclaimed by some big names, drawing attention from BBC Radio Ulster’s Stephen McCauley, RTE 2 FM’s Dan Hegarty, RTE 2XM, and more.

Cascading with delicate electronics, supple melodies and soothing vocals, nicha presents her deft songwriting and musical talent within ‘saltwater song’. nicha’s ability to layer and enrich her songs with unique sounds never ceases to impress. Within ‘saltwater song’, she unfolds lush melodies and ethereal soundscapes into a bedding of earthy elements and Asian influence to create a soothing and compelling tune. With eerie harmonies contrasting the pacifying warmth of her soulful vocals, the track ventures from a mellow lounge tune to a psychedelic mind melter with ease. This rich and diverse sound is why nicha has become a mesmerising artist to admire. There are no boundaries, no confines or genre rule she won’t bend to create a beautifully lush and captivating tune to indulge in. nicha is a talent to treasure.

About the song, nicha says…“saltwater song is liberating and empowering. It tells the story of someone who is struggling to overcome personal issues such as a bad relationship, addiction or an unhealthy habit. Weighted by these issues, they are unable to become their best self or reach their full potential. The lyrics of saltwater song express the passing of time and the fear of being swept up in distraction and forgetting where you are meant to be going. The music reflects this as well through a wash of melodies and dreamy instrumentals.”

Stream ‘saltwater song’ below


Author : Danu

Alt- Pop, electro- pop, Indie, Indie Pop, New Music, Synth-pop

Five Days North ‘Colours (In My Mind)’

Immersed in memories of pre-pandemic life, ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ is the new single from Manchester indie pop band Five Days North. From winning the 2017 Best Unsigned Band at the UK Unsigned Music Awards, Five Days North have gradually evolved into the encompassing and emotionally charged outfit they are today. Their heart-on-their sleeve lyricism combined with their infectious brand of indie pop has turned heads in their home city of Manchester, as well as further afield. With festival spots at Dot To Dot Festival and Kendal Calling, headline shows at Gorilla and Manchester Academy 3, as well as radio support from BBC Introducing and Co-Op Radio, Five Days North are winning hearts and minds up and down the country as well as on the international stage.

Exuding a progressive 80’s synth-pop persona filled with melodic pop hooks and indie glimmers, ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ shows Five Days North are a band cultivating their sound into something unique and expressive. The track broods with a dark undertone as bubbling rhythms simmer under the atmospheric synth explosions. With brisk drum beats creating a pulse and rush of adrenaline, Five Days North present a fresh and biting tune brimming with passion. The band blend a whirlwind of expressive instrumentation with soft eerie twinkles on keys to create a wonderful contrast as the track reaches its dynamic crescendo. Saturated in lush textures and sounds ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ is a magnificent new single from Five Days North.

Stream ‘Colours (In My Mind)’ below  


Author : Danu